Arthur's Seat.

     This eccentric square tower lies just outside of Caterham, Surrey on the edge of rolling farmland. A few yards away from the North Downs Way it is often gazed upon by ramblers. It is visible from the road although almost obscured by trees and positioned where White Hill meets War Coppice Road.

     It was built by Arthur Seat in either 1833 or 1853; there was an inscription which has now completely weathered away. It is marked on a more recently drawn map thought to represent the area in 1837 as Whitehill Tower circa 1800. Another map of local monuments describes it as, Folly. Whitehill (1851) Most locals seem to know it as Arthur's Seat.

     It's purpose is unclear. Arthur could have built it for his children but more likely it was as a viewing point to observe the local countryside. It is set in an elevated position and although now surrounded by trees it could have been in open land with commanding views. Indeed the Downland ridge upon which it stands is well known as a viewpoint and it is this ridge that is Arthur's Seat.

     Arthur owned much of the land in that area but at sometime parcels of it had to be sold off to pay taxes. The Folly ended up in the corner of a farmer's field.

     I remember it from my childhood some 40 years ago when it stood isolated in the corner of a field. Upon my recent visit (with the permission of the owners) I discovered it in a sadly deteriorating condition. Many shrubs and trees are growing from around the base Totally obscuring the lower half. Some of the larger trees are right under the foundations and will soon destroy it. The entrance is almost entirely blocked by a large tree and the original doorway and all the surrounding stonework has collapsed. The base of one entire wall has all but disappeared. 

     It is approximately some 4 metres square and 12 metres high. Constructed of local flint and stone it must have been a magnificent sight when newly built. Inside it is completely derelict and somewhat dangerous. A few beams and floor boards hang perilously inside almost suspended in mid air. In one Corner there is the remains of a fireplace that would have heated the building as Arthur surveyed his lands or delighted his guests with the wonder of his creation and the magnificent views.  I am amazed that it is not a protected building. It needs help Now! 

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